Salt Lake City, Utah— The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) board approved an amendment to the Castle Country Project Area during its meeting on January 6, 2025. The amendment adds 10,754.31 acres to the project area, increasing the total to 12,657.03 acres. It also includes updated budget projections, revised legal descriptions, and enhanced environmental review measures.
The expansion reflects collaboration with Carbon and Emery Counties, which in 2023 and 2024 passed resolutions inviting UIPA to establish a joint project area. This partnership recognizes the close economic ties between the counties and aims to address shared challenges while maximizing opportunities for growth. Historically, coal mining and its supporting industries served as the backbone of the region’s economy, contributing 63% of local tax revenue in 2012. As coal operations have declined, this burden has shifted to local homeowners, who now shoulder 63% of taxes. By integrating additional parcels, UIPA seeks to stimulate economic development and create high-paying jobs, replacing lost revenue and revitalizing the region.
“This amendment represents a significant step forward in maximizing the potential of the Castle Country Project Area,” said Jenna Draper, Associate Vice President of Regional Project Area Development. “By expanding the area, we’re not only supporting sustainable growth but also creating meaningful opportunities for local communities.”
One of the parcels included in the amendment is the inactive Fossil Rock Coal Mine. Although there are no immediate plans to financially support the mine, its inclusion aligns with Emery County’s request to address local energy needs. If reactivated, the mine could supply coal to local power plants currently operating at one-third capacity, potentially creating over 1,000 jobs and sustaining plant operations until alternative energy sources are viable. UIPA emphasizes that any future mining operations would prioritize environmentally responsible practices and efficient logistics to minimize environmental impact.
The town of Green River, another key area in the project, faces significant economic distress, with 16% of its population living below the poverty line and a median household income of $43,190. To address this, UIPA has partnered with new city leadership to expand the project area footprint, incorporating land suitable for development and fostering economic growth to support the community’s long-term revitalization goals.
With the amendment now approved, the expanded project area will utilize property tax incentives to attract new investments, bolster regional infrastructure, and stimulate long-term economic growth in this historically underserved region.
“This expansion is a game-changer for our community,” said Keven Jensen, Emery County Commissioner. “By bringing in new industries and leveraging existing infrastructure, we’re setting the stage for sustainable economic growth and providing the kind of opportunities that families in Emery County deserve.”